Zurlaubener Ufer, Trier

Zurlaubener Ufer, situated in the Nord district of Trier along the eastern bank of the Moselle, is a street steeped in history, tracing back to the early medieval settlement of Zurlauben, once known locally as Zalawen. The street derives its name from the historic fishing village of Zurlauben, which, according to documents from as early as the 13th century, had various names like “zur lauffen” and “zue lueve.” Over the centuries, the name evolved, reflecting local dialect and culture.

The area’s architectural heritage reveals a mix of Romanesque and 18th-century structures, with its earliest known building being the Saint Symphorian Monastery, constructed between 622 and 640. Although destroyed by Norman invaders in 822, the site continued to play a significant role in local history, especially when Napoleon parceled off former monastic lands to citizens, fostering development in the region.

Zurlaubener Ufer became home to a small fishing community by the 17th century. Rustic houses, each with a garden facing the Moselle and old smoking ovens for preserving fish, line the street. Even today, the street preserves its tranquil charm, thanks to traffic-calmed regulations. Although modernized over the centuries, Zurlaubener Ufer retains much of its historical atmosphere. Alongside its scenic views, it’s also known for its 17 cultural monuments, which include a row of houses built and refurbished in the 18th century. Despite some losses, such as the classicist structure at Zurlaubener Ufer 93, the street remains an enduring part of Trier’s cultural landscape.